A bibliometric analysis of executive functions in ADHD mapping trends and hotspots

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Executive functions (EFs) represent a key domain in neuropsychological research, attracting attention gradually in studies of ADHD. Despite the growing body of literature on EFs in ADHD, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis mapping the intellectual structure, research hotspots, and evolutionary trends in this field remains lacking. Given the importance of EFs and ADHD, the study aimed to map research trends, and identify the research hotspots on EFs in ADHD over the past decade.

All literature related to EFs in ADHD from 2015 to 2024 was collected from the Web of Science Core Collection. Our research utilizes bibliometric tools to construct relevant knowledge maps for national, institutional, author, journal, reference, and keyword analysis, and summarizes trends and research hotspots in the field.

2898 papers about EFs in ADHD were accessed in the Web of Science Core Collection over the last decade. Data analysis revealed that the USA dominated in publication volume; King's College London was the institution with the most publications; Kofler, Michael J was the most published researcher; the Journal of Attention Disorder was the main journal for the study of EFs in ADHD. Seven clusters were identified and five hotspots were analyzed.

Our study summarizes the research trends and research hotspots in the field of EFs in ADHD research. Future research could focus on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between ADHD core symptoms and EFs, and studies on comorbidities associated with ADHD based on EF deficits. Research in this field regarding diagnosis, neuroimaging, and treatment remains to be conducted.